New Delhi: The Indians were definitely not bothered about the entire pollution fiasco that has ruled the headlines for the past few days. But on the fourth day, one of the key members of their bowling unit-Mohammad Shami threw up on the field as a result of illness, which again shifts the focus back to the quality of air in the capital.
“Pollution is an aspect that we seriously need to think about,” said Shami.
He also said, “But what was being portrayed (by Sri Lanka), it wasn’t to that extent.”
But the speedster also admitted the dangers of playing in Delhi at this time of the year
“Also it could be termed that we are more used to pollution,” he added.
“Our ability to adjust is much more compared to them (the Lankans). I think we need to check what the reasons for pollution are and try to minimize them. We are used to suffering from all these problems.”
Earlier in the day, Sri Lankan fast bowler Suranga Lakmal too threw up on the field due to sickness from the pollution.
Delhi’s credibility as an international venue has now come under the scanner as the Sri Lankan players continue to wear anti-pollution masks during the Test match. A senior BCCI official told PTI that Kotla might not get to host a game before 2020.
“BCCI is pitching for their exclusive home season slot in February-March every year. They will only get that slot in February-March 2020 as per the new Future Tours Programme (FTP). Therefore, Kotla may or may not be in line for a Test match before 2020,” he said.
He further added, “There are other venues waiting for their turn. Similarly in 2019, when the fresh Future Tours and Programme (FTP) starts, it will take some time for Kotla to get another game.”
Bengal CM takes a dig at Swachh Bharat campaign
Amidst the fiasco regarding the Delhi pollution and the India-Sri Lanka test match at the Kotla, Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee took a dig at the Swachh Bharat campaign as she said, “What happened to the Swachh Bharat campaign? Sri Lankan cricketers are playing with masks on the field in the Capital. From political pollution to weather pollution, Delhi represents it all.”
“From eating to playing, masks are needed in Delhi for a number of activities,” she further added.